If one of the parties at a marriage ceremony does not speak Turkish, an interpreter must be present so that the declarations can be understood. Conveying correctly the consent given before the marriage registrar matters for the validity of the marriage.
At BKT we are with you not only on the day of the ceremony but also through the paperwork beforehand. We complete the apostille and sworn translation of documents such as the certificate of capacity to marry, the birth certificate and the divorce decree, and provide interpreter accompaniment on the day.
Who is it for?
- Foreign nationals who will marry a Turkish citizen
- Two foreigners marrying in Türkiye
- Couples preparing their marriage paperwork
- Couples carrying out procedures at a consulate
- Those planning a family residence permit after marriage
- Those looking for an interpreter as part of their wedding arrangements
Required documents
The list below is for a typical case. Additional documents may be requested depending on your nationality, the type of application and the practice of the relevant authority; the definitive list is given to you in writing at the initial consultation.
- Passport and its notarised translation
- Certificate of capacity to marry and its translation
- Birth certificate or civil registry extract
- If divorced, the final divorce decree and its translation
- Registry office appointment details
The process step by step
- 1
Document list
The required documents are determined according to nationality and marital status.
- 2
Translation and certification
Sworn translation and notarial certification of the documents are completed.
- 3
Appointment
The registry office application and the ceremony appointment are arranged.
- 4
Day of the ceremony
The sworn translator attends the ceremony and conveys the declarations.
- 5
Afterwards
Guidance is provided on the international marriage certificate and the family residence permit.
Common mistakes
- Leaving the need for an interpreter until the day of the ceremony
- Bringing the certificate of capacity to marry without an apostille
- Not obtaining the finality endorsement on the divorce decree
- Missing the validity period of the documents
- Not planning the timeline for the family residence permit after the marriage
Legal basis
Turkish Civil Code No. 4721 and the Marriage Regulation
Legislation and administrative practice may change. The information on this page is for general guidance only; an assessment specific to your case requires a consultation.